Character
The Story of Shiso leaf
Shiso leaf delivers a crisp, herbaceous aroma tinged with citrus and pepper, offering a fresh lift that brightens both aromatic and oriental compositions.
Heritage
Shiso, known scientifically as Perilla frutescens, grew in the mountainous regions of China and India before spreading to Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia. Historical texts from the Tang dynasty mention its use as a medicinal herb, prized for its cooling properties. Japanese monks introduced shiso to temple gardens in the 8th century, where it served both culinary and incense purposes. By the Meiji era, shiso leaf oil appeared in early Japanese fragrance formulas, offering a local alternative to imported green notes. The plant's dual role in food and scent helped it survive cultural shifts, and modern natural perfumery now revisits this heritage ingredient for its distinctive green profile.
At a Glance
2
Feature this note
China
Primary source region
Ingredient Details
Steam distillation
Fresh leaves
Did You Know
"Shiso leaves are a staple in Japanese cuisine, yet their essential oil was first recorded in perfumery archives in the early 1900s, bridging culinary and aromatic traditions."


